Shred: Learning Park

 I love snowboarding. The mountains are where I go to recharge. I'm lucky to call the Canadian Rockies home. Mountain time, is a little like "island" time. On the mountain everything has a different beat and pace. With spring in the air, now is the perfect time to play  in the park. Spring snow is great for learning new tricks, whether it be your first time hitting a rail or trying a switch back lip on a stair set . The spring snow is soft, and the weather is nearly tropical.

Learning to ride park is not nearly as scary or painful as it may seem. You want to start small and work your way up. I recently teamed with Sunshine Village to film a few beginner park tricks. This first just walks you trough a basic 50-50. 

Go, and enjoy the snow where ever you are. Mount Spokane and Lookout Pass both have super fun parks to push your riding. 

 RCR Resorts have fun progressive rail parks to help get you framiliar and comfortable with riding rails/boxes. 

LISTN: FUN.

Fun. Is anything but over rated. Fun, is grunge  in an aristo-cat fashion. Fun. A New York City based indie pop band is back with their sophomore album "Some Night."

You might have heard "We are young," featuring Janelle Monae. We are Young, is the first Rock/Alt song to top the Billboard chart since Coldplays Viva La Vida.  The song has good beat and mimics the irony of a power pop ballad. Fun. Consist of Nate Ruess (formally of The Format), Andrew Dost (Anathallo), and Jack Antonoff (Steal Train).

Nate Ruess, the lead singer has Freddy Mercury vibe to him. His voice raw and perfectly pitched. His stage presence is charismatic and theatrical. Fun.'s new album, Some Nice, has calming vibe complimented by intelligent lyrics.

Fun. Will be playing at Sasquatch Fest 2012. Which I am excited for. For other concert dates check out their tour.

Sweat: Long Lean Arms

I'm built like a gymnast; small and compact. I have broad shoulders and a a tendency to "bulk" in my arms. I have always felt somewhat self conscious of my arms (until now).

I aspire to tone my arms, not to bulk them up. Traditional arm strengthening routines were not giving me the results that I desired. I love the concept of designing long lean ballet arms that is promoted in both the Tracy Anderson Method, and Ballet Beautiful. The secret to achieving perfect Ballet arms, is combining strength with stretch. Long Lean arms, are the product of perfect posture and concentrated exercises.


I spend hours hunched over text books, and a key board. When I slouch I can feel my shoulders tightening up and my arm muscles contracting. This forced tension created by poor posture negates the exercises and work I have done to tone and lengthen my arms. When toning your arms, remember the principles of posture: Shoulders down, core engaged and neck long.

This 15 minute arm routine is designed to tone your arms while focusing on posture. No equipment is needed, just follow along and breath through the work. Transform your arms!

Sweat and Cear Skin

One major bummer about daily sweat sessions, is that they can cause the skin to break out. when we workout we activate the lymphatic system which is responsible for detoxifying the body. Our body disposes of the waist through sweat. The lymph system often experiences "mechanical issues," when it does toxins from our body get trapped in the epidermis (skin). 

A main culprit of workout induced acne is our hair. Exercisers who always pin there hair up and away from their faces experience 1/3 the amount of sweat related zits as those who exercises with a flowing main. To reduce workout induced acne, spray your hair with a dry shampoo or oil eater like Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Spray before a workout. Gently brush through your locks, and pull your hair back, and up of your face. This will help prevent oils from the hair rubbing onto the skin. 

I like to make my own ribbon hair ties; as they are cheep and easy to make. I always loose hair ties- and can't stand the nasty metal clip that always gets naughted with hair. I find that the ribbon hair ties hold my hair well. And look decent waiting to be used on my wrist. 

To make your own hair ties, all you need is ribbon elastic. Elastic is easy to find at a fabric store and inexpensive.  A yard of elastic costs about a quarter and will t9 hair ties. 

Cut the elastic ribbon into 9' smaller ribbons for hair ties, and 20' ribbons for head bands.

Fold in half, and tie into a knot. 

(white elastic can be died with fabric paint to spice up your hair ties!)

Trailblazin' Grandma

My grandma, who is a gem, and I had a lunch date at The Coup; in Calgary last week. My grandma; whom is now nearly 82, is a bit of trail blazer. Her father was a railroad attendant for CN rail. She grew up above the rail road with three brothers in the 30's. You would think, that growing up as the only girl in a household would make you a little more rough and trouble; which it did. My grandma is an intellect. She loves to read, draw, and think.

As a teen, my grandma dreamt of medical school. Her father; who was a practical man, did not necessarily see the value in education for my grandma. He gave her a choice; he told her he would either pay for an education, or that he would pay for her wedding. My great grandfather thought he gave my grandma the perfect ultimatum. He thought, no girl could resist a dream wedding.

My grandma chose an education. My grandma chose to become a Doctor. My Grandma was one of four women in her class. She graduated medical school with honors- and became a leading public health medical officer for the Alberta Health Board. At 82, I sometimes see past the brilliant and turbulent fight my grandma pushed through to challenge gender stereotypes. I would never classify my grandma as a feminist. She is classy, well dressed, and believes is traditions. My Grandma was, and still is a social activist.

I can only imagine the hassle and frustrations she had to deal with in her pursuit of happiness. I'm sure she was told more times than she can count that "medicine isn't for women." My grandma fought with pen and paper to prove more than her equality. She proved capable, resourceful, and brought uniquely female traits to health care. She rearrange her world in order to live her dream. My grandma inspires me to fight for what i want; and more importantly what i view as right.

Thank you grandma; for blazing a path in future woman professionals can continue to re frame their world to suite their goals.

Horoscopes: March 26- April 1

Happy Monday! It's my parents birthdays today- As a kid I used to think that I had to get married to someone with the same birthday as me; just like my parents. Although, I must say I like having my birthday to myself. My parents have always taught me the importance of sharing; sharing what you love. Sharing is not about giving away all you posses but about opening yourself up to be seen. With that thought in mind, enjoy your March 26 weekly Elle Canada and Georgia Nicols horoscopes!

Aries:

Well, it's still your time, dear Aries. Enjoy your good fortune while the Sun is in your sign. (Ovid, who lived 43 B.C. said, "Let others praise ancient times; I am glad I was born in these.") He preferred his now over yesterday. That kinda puts things in perspective, doesn't it? Just a reminder that it's always wise to appreciate what you've got, who you are and where you are in history. In your year ahead, you will definitely boost your income and buy lovely treasures for yourself because you're willing to work so hard at this time. And since partnerships are challenging (help!) many of you are motivated to secure your independence. (Oh yeah.)

Taurus:

Things are looking very good for you with fair Venus and lucky moneybags Jupiter in your sign. (Not too shabby!) And in a few weeks (April 19) the Sun will enter Taurus to give you a real boost. Appreciate your good fortune. You're feeling very sexy and physically passionate now. For some, this energy translates into competitive sports. Actually, right now you're prepared to work hard and play hard. However, parents might find children a bit challenging. (Fortunately, Taurus makes the best parent because you take care of the basics: clothing, a warm bed and three squares a day.) Do find things to amuse you. Enjoy the theatre, sports, musical performances, dinners with friends and fun schmoozing.

Gemini:

You're popular and feeling extremely social, so get out and schmooze with others! Talk to friends and rub shoulders with members of clubs and groups because you need this social stimulation right now. In particular, it will help you if you share your hopes for the future with others because their feedback will benefit you in some way. Factoid. Some of you are dabbling in secret love affairs. Be careful - your Achilles' heel is the "grass is greener" syndrome. Logic dictates there will always be greener grass because there is no end to "better." In other words, there will always be a better job, a better partner, a better house and so on. It never ends. Don't get sucked into this vicious cycle. And don't blow something solid for a mere bonbon.

Cancer:

You continue to catch the eye of others, especially bosses, parents and VIPs, because the Sun is so high in your chart. (This is a good thing.) And it is the perfect time to examine your life, your role in the community and your life direction in general. So, how does it stack up? Because you look so competent and attractive to others (especially bosses), you might be asked to take on increased responsibilities. Do say yes because you won't have to be an Action Hero to pull it off. Meanwhile, back at the ranch, interaction with parents might be significant. This is definitely a good time to take stock and plan where you want to be five years from now.

Leo:

Life is taking on an exciting edge lately, have you noticed? You're eager to travel and you're equally as eager to learn and explore fascinating ideas. You want to challenge your mind by trying new things and meeting new people. ("What is the square root of love?"") Actually, with Jupiter and Venus slowly moving across the top of your chart, all kinds of good fortune is coming your way to favourably boost your reputation and make you look great in the eyes of others, especially bosses and VIPs. Romance with someone richer, older or more experienced might blossom. (This could help your champagne tastes.)

Virgo:

You're definitely feeling feisty! It's a good thing because you are unusually ambitious now on several fronts. Travel for pleasure totally appeals. And matters related to publishing, the media, medicine, the law and higher education look sweet. You might be excited to explore something new because you're very keen to improve yourself right now. In fact, this long duration of Mars in Virgo has made everyone unusually health-conscious. (That's because each sign rules certain parts of the body and Virgo rules the intestines, so lots of people are suddenly super aware of their diet.) Every Virgo knows a balanced diet is not a hotdog in each hand.

Libra:

You were so on top of your game around 2003. (Ah yes.) That was then and this is now. And now you're busy reinventing yourself (since, roughly, 2010). Well, I say get used to it because this metamorphosis will continue for about five more years. (Think "new clothes!") Since the efforts of others can benefit you now, do be open to offers that come your way. And similarly, be quick to join forces with others. You might benefit through inheritances, gifts, favours or a boost in your partner's income. There's no question your work scene is suffering from snafus and delays, and many of you are carrying on underground or behind-the-scenes activities. (Love affair?) You are such a social romantic.

Scorpio:

Have you made your To Do list? Lord knows you have a strong urge to clean up your act. You want to pull it all together: where you live, where you work, how you look and how you feel. Hey, make the most of this impulse! Physical sports and competition with others might drive you now as well. Fortunately, things look sweet when it comes to close friendships and partnerships. You are loved. (And yes, old flames back on the scene are testimony to this.) Even though this is a classic time to let go of people and places and possessions for you, it would be wise to partner up with people because you can benefit from this in the next two years.

Sagittarius:

Essentially, you are pulled in two directions right now because in one way you want to play. You want fun. You want to flirt. You want to enjoy sports. You want to go on vacation. "Fly me anywhere." You want to express your artistic talents and individual creativity. "I want to be me!" And yet, you're very ambitious right now as well. You're busting your buns to impress others with what you can do. Fortunately, people are impressed, which means there are many ways you can get a better job or improve your existing job. Old family issues are back on your plate again. (No biggie, really.)

Capricorn:

Your focus continues to be on home, family and domestic issues. Nevertheless, like Sagittarius, you want to play! Romance is in your soul, plus although travel opportunities have blessed you in the recent past, they will continue to bless you now and in the future. (I repeat: Don't bother unpacking your bags.) Romance, love affairs, the arts, sports, creative projects and playful activities with children all appeal to you and they hold great promise! These are all vehicles that will help you reshape aspects of your personality. And, of course, all Capricorns are on this big self-improvement kick. (Pluto will do that to you.)

Aquarius:

Things look fabulous! While busy with short trips, visits and discussions with everyone around you, you are also beautifully supported at home. In fact, everything on the home front is totally warm and reassuring! This is a great time for real-estate deals and also a wonderful time to redecorate or begin projects that will make where you live look more beautiful. By all means, entertain at home. Invite people over. Others will enjoy your family and your home right now because it's all so positive. Admittedly, disputes about inheritances and shared property could exist. Just pass around more of those home-made cookies.

Pisces:

"Show me the money!" Ah yes, you're totally focused on earnings, cash flow and how to generate more money. In part, this is because many of you have major expenditures in mind. (Others want to blow their money on trivial stuff like milk, bread and electricity.) Lots of deja vu moments will no doubt arise for many of you in the next few weeks. Meanwhile, practice does make perfect, which means you're becoming skilfully patient at dealing with the disappointments of partnerships and close friendships. Oy vey. You are always more impressed by deeds than words because hey, words are cheap. Actions speak for themselves. Another reason you need more dough is the next 18-24 months are the best for real estate. ("Will somebody get that door? It could be an opportunity waiting outside!")

Eat: Citrus Beet Salad with Avocado Dressing

My Great-Grandma was born in the Ukraine. She lived to be 102. She had fetish for beets. The colorful root vegetable contains powerful nutrient compounds that help protect the body against heart disease, and colon cancer. Beets are a great source of carotenoid, vitamin C, magnesium, and iron. Beets are a great natural anti-inflammatory; they help support the body in detoxification. Beets have a unique composition, they are low in calories just 42 per 100gr; and contain the highest sugar content of any vegetable. Beets are a great healthy way to boost energy.

Citrus Beet Salad

Hot Plus Cold

Hot Salad:

3 large red beets

1 tbsp coconut oil

1 red onion

1 Bunch Kale

1 cup mushrooms

1/4 cup orange juice

2 Tbsp lime juice

1 Tbsp apple cider vinegar

1/4 tsp thyme

1/4 tsp paprika

dash of salt

Cold Salad:

4 cups raw spinach

2 large oranges

Avocado Dressing:

1/2 cup ripe avocado 

3 cloves garlic minced

1/4 coconut cream (or other creamer)

1/4 cup lime juice

2 tbsp agave nectar

2 tbsp orange juice

1/4 tsp Cayenne pepper

salt and pepper to taste

Preheat the oven to 425 F. Wash the beets, and gently drizzle them with oil before wrapping them in tinfoil. Bake the beets for about an hour or until soft. Once cooked set aside to cool.

In a small bowl, combine all the ingredients for the dressing. Blend until to smooth. 

In large wok, heat the oil and add the onions. Stir the onions until soft, add the kale, lime juice, orange juice and salt. Cover for a few minutes or until the kale turns a bright green. Add the mushrooms, thyme and paprika. Check your beets; if they have cooled enough slice them up and add them to the wok. Stir well.

To assemble: 

Fill a large salad bowl with the spinach and the oranges. Add half of the avocado dressing. Slowly fold in the hot kale/beet mix. Add the remaining dressing, and toss well. 

-Enjoy!

Drink: Thomas Hammers

The Inlander, a weekly newspaper for the Spokane/Cour d'Alene does a yearly readers poll of the BEST local businesses. Many of my favorite local shops like Veda Lux and Huckleberry's were featured in the best of The Inlander. I have to give special props to Thomas Hammer; a Spokane based coffee roaster and coffee shop chain.

Thomas Hammer, the man, is a Gonzaga Alumni. Hammer was a business student who developed his fine taste for coffee while a student at GU. In a business planning course, Tom created an elaborate and do-able business plan for a coffee roasting company. The plan was so well thought out that the dean of the Gonzaga Business school personally invested in Tom's proposed business. Thomas Hammer opened his roastery and  first coffee shop in 1993. Since '93, Thomas Hammer has expanded into a small coffee chain with 11 company owned stores and a successful roastery which wholesales across the nation.

For a company first, Thomas Hammer was voted the BEST coffee roaster in Spokane. This award title could not be more deserving. Thomas Hammer is a community orientated business that roasts superb bean blends. Thomas Hammer knows coffee.

As a unique thank you to the community, Thomas Hammer placed a full page ad in the Inlander. The ad instructed customers to "instagram" the ad and present it to a Thomas Hammer barista before noon on Friday. I look forward to my weekly Tom Hammer soy latte. As Hammer says: "The best coffee is free coffee." I couldn't agree more Tom; Free coffee is awesome. I personally found the customer appreciation gesture heart warming.  

Thanks Thomas Hammer, Hammer back a few bevies in victory!

Shop: 11th Moon

Every blue moon or so, you find yourself completely home in a foreign land. I don't often find myself in Southern California; yet when I do, I am happy to find the air relaxed. My body knows the Hollywood hills, and the beach towns almost intuitively. When in California; its as if I remember exploring the streets in another era. 

I jive with the west coast vibe; that of prominence, patience, and perseverance which personifies the OC. The shops have a unique vintage feel with a modern elegance, the food is healthy, and the people are friendly. A quick get a way trip to Laguna Beach, never feels long enough. I barley ever have time to relish in all the beauty I wish to explore. Whether it is losing myself completely in the words of Bernard Shaw or exploring the  fashion boutiques on the south coast highway. I could spend an eternity, alone, admiring, and devouring the textiles, looks, styles, and beautiful garments at 11th Moon.

The boutique earned its name through the proprietors love of Astrology. Under Hindu philosophy; the 11th moon is symbolic of enjoyment, pleasure, and comfort. 

11th Moon, is an eclectic modern fashion emporium. The owner, has impeccable taste. Her style is casual glamour. 11th moon is stocked with some of the most beautiful dresses, jackets, bags, and decoration jewelry that I've seen. The store is decorated with local art, and new aged crystals. The store is peaceful, calm, and vast. I feel in love with 11th Moon, the minute I laid eyes on its window display. 

The staff is knowledgable, and product quality of 11th Moon is superb. The staffat 11th moon are friendly, and helpful. I was amazed by their intuitive ability to match colors, looks, and cuts perfectly with patrons. 11th Moon knows fashion, and genuinely want to help their clients look their best. 

With the unique designs, wicked fashion buys, and great customer service; I know I will be shopping at 11th Moon again. 

11th Moon can be found at 1259 South Coast Highway, Laguna Beach; or online at: http://www.11thmoon.com 

Sweat: Stretch Before, Stretch After

Stretching is good for the heart. It helps to break up the lactic acid deposits that are stored in muscles. If muscle are over burdened with lactic acid they stiffen up because clean oxygenated blood cant flow through. I often struggle with remembering to stretch properly. Before you physical exertion a gentle warm up helps to get the blood flowing; after a workout a gentle cool down helps the muscles flush out waste.

This 2011-12 ski season, I have been blessed with infinate powder days. I can honesty say that I have had more powder days this season than park days. Thanks to mother nature, Sunshine Village, and Red Mountain. The powder is heavenly- and the pillows luxurious. I'm loving the conditions; even though my muscles are taking a beating from the mountain and the fresh snow.

I find that religiously following an exercise program like TAM really helps keep my body in top mountain shape. TAM workouts help increase: strength, flexibility, and cardio. With all the physical demands of the mountain, I'm finding myself in need of a little extra TLC. I have had to up the anti on my stretching.

This 10 minute stretch routine, will help build strength and flexibility. It is a great way to loosen up your muscles and warm up the body. Perfect before of after the slopes. 

Beauty: Coconut Oil Hair Rescue

Coconut Oil, is a beauty super supplement. The rich oil is not only great for cooking; but when applied directly to skin, hair, or nails the oil penetrates deep into the hair and skin cuticles to provide a rich moisture. Coconut oil is an amazing product that helps recover dry damaged hair. Coconut oil can be found at most grocery stores. Buy the big size. It may seem pricey, but you will get a ton of use out it. 

I like to do a hair mask, at least once a week. I sped a lot of time outdoors, breathing in the fresh mountain air. Fresh air is good for my soul, but not always as kind to my hair (or skin). Winter weather wreaks havoc on my locks; as does the changing seasons.  To fight weather damaged hair, I make a coconut oil rescue hair mask. 

Coconut Oil Hair Rescue Mask:

-1/4 cup Coconut Oil

-1 tbsp molasses

-1 tbsp honey

- a few drops of peppermint or eucalyptus essential oils

Both honey and molasses are both humectants; which means that they naturally attract and hold onto water molecules. The honey and the molasses when applied to the scalp helps hair retain moisture; which aids hair in achieving a healthy bounce. 

Eucalyptus and peppermint oils, both have a calming effect. They are favored essential oils for the treatment of head aches. Adding a few drops of each or either will give you that zen feeling.

In a small bowl combine all the ingredients. Apply to hair, before you plan on showering. I usually like to mask my hair right after a workout. Once you have the mask applies, cover it with a shower cap, or re-use a plastic bag to wrap hair up. Let the mask sit for 15-20 minutes. 

Love, your beautiful hair!

Pain, and The Running Shoes

 Old broken, cush-less sneakers are the evil of villains of the workout. They lure you in to their chamber of torture through; "a healthy lifestyle" promotion. The old sneakers sneer with content as you resolve to exercise more. They feign interest in your progress until that first pain of chin splits surges through your leg. Old workout shoes are the number one cause of fitness related injuries in women.

Most of my workouts are done either: at home with Tracy Anderson (or my own tramp creation); or at the gym on a treadmill. My shoes rarely get a taste of dirt and because of their diet they are able to maintain an air of youthfulness. My runners may look brand shinning new- when in reality they have exceeded their recommended millage and are beginning to cause serious pain.

Most gear is made for a recreational user; this fact is the reason that some people can have the same shoes for a decade without need to replace and others seems in constant state of gear replenishment. The average Running shoe is designed to last 300-400 miles (depending on intensity). If your average run was 6 miles- then your shoe should be good for a maximum of 100 runs. But the structure of your shoe changes depending on the exercises. An hour of aerobics is considered to have the wear and tear of 10 miles, because of the constant change in intensity and direction. This means that for aerobics freaks like myself shoes should be replaced every other month.

 For cardio machine addicts 30 minutes on the treadmill has the wear of 5 miles; because the tread on most treadmills is a little loose which cause your foot to land harder than it would on the ground. This again reduces the life of your shoes-though the stationary bike and the elliptical have nearly a net-zero impact on your runners.

If you need, think you need, or doubt you need new runners here are few tests and considerations to appropriately guess the utility age of you shoe.

1. Millage- How long have you had your shoes, and how often do you work out? If you work out 5 times a week for about an hour you will need to replace your shoes at minimum of every  4 months.

2. Pain- If you ever feel pain in your chins/joints. Trash you shoes. The first place our bodies feel pain as result of poor sole cushioning is in our chins, and then moves on to other joints. To prevent further injuries take a few days of training and return with new shoes or supportive insoles.

3. Soles no more-  I would hope that this would be an intuitive sign that you need new runners; but I know from experience that i have held on to certain runners way past their best buy date because I liked them, regardless of the fact that their soles were bare.

4. The twist test- If you were to hold you shoe in both hands and give it a good old fashioned twist it should feel firm; not flimsy.

If you shoes fail the twist test, give you pain, or have a naked sole. Its time to replace. You will be amazed by the difference.

Horoscopes: March 19-25

Happy Monday, unfortunately for me, Spring Break is over- and I have to embark on the long trek back to Spokane. My muscles are a little soar from all the fresh snow that I was spoiled with at Sunshine Village. Now, I'm in the final academic push before my graduation commencement. I'm back to work; with fresh  motivation in mind. Here are your Georgia Nicols horoscopes for March 19- 25.

Aries:

Hubba hubba! The Sun is back in your sign, which means it's your birthday. Since the Sun is your source of energy, this is your turn to recharge your batteries for the rest of the year. (We like!) Furthermore, when the Sun is in your own sign, it tends to attract people and favourable circumstances to you. Make the most of this! (Ya think?) Demand the advantage. Ask for what you want. Meanwhile, continue to work hard. Many of you are improving your health through changes in diet or exercise. Perhaps we'll be looking at the new you by the end of this year? This year also promises money-making opportunities.

Taurus:

Every year, when the Sun enters Aries, it's your signal to work behind the scenes and ponder profundity. In fact, because your birthday is just one month away, this is the ideal time for you to plan or strategize what you want your new year (birthday to birthday) to be all about. Are you pleased with last year? How do you want things to be different? With Jupiter in your sign for the next several months, you can expect many favourable conditions and pleasant surprises to please you. Then later this year and into next year, you will boost your income! Meanwhile, Mars continues to urge you to flirt, take vacations plus enjoy sports and playful activities with children. (Not too shabby!)

Gemini:

You will so enjoy the next six weeks because by nature, you're curious and social. You like to be out there in the thick of it. You like to know what's going on and you love the gossip! You will love this very popular month ahead. Get out and schmooze. Accept all invitations. Join groups, gatherings, clubs and associations. You'll find it particularly beneficial to discuss and share your hopes and dreams for the future with others because their feedback will help you. (Almost guaranteed.) You might need to touch base with a good friend to talk about the insanity or conflict and chaos that is going on at home. (Hey - there might be two of you, but you can only stand so much!)

Cancer:

The Sun is now at high noon in your chart acting like a spotlight on you. This is why the next six weeks will bring moments where people will notice you more than usual, in particular bosses, parents, teachers, VIPs and the police. (Ah yes, do take note this includes the police.) Fortunately, this so-called spotlight is actually great lighting for you, which is why you will be perceived as being unusually talented, capable, industrious or clever. (And you are!) This is why others will ask you to take on increased responsibilities. Just say yes. You can do the job. Furthermore, your ability to be assertive (surely you have noticed) will no doubt serve you well. ("Where do I sign?")

Leo:

As the Sun changes to Aries this week, your desire to travel and explore more of the world will increase. In fact, you want to grab more of life! This is why any kind of exploration will please you, be it physical, i.e. through travel or exploring your own city, or mental, i.e. travelling through books and film and learning more about the world. This is a great time to study and read. It's also a good time to explore opportunities in publishing, the media, medicine and the law. (You also enjoy meeting people from different backgrounds and other countries.) Meanwhile, you're spending money like it's going out of style. You might want to try to curb this (yeah yeah, why even mention it?)

Virgo:

Suddenly, you're intense about practically everything. And it looks like you're going to stay in this focused mode for the next six weeks. (Get ready, world.) Naturally, this gives you a greater drive for self-improvement and also for improving your surroundings and especially dealing with shared property, other people's resources and anything you own jointly with someone. You want to clear up the mess! However, this same energy will also make you sexually passionate. (Woo-woo!) Either way, you're turned on. And with fiery Mars still in your sign until the summer, you are all systems go! ("Houston, we're ready for take-off.")

Libra:

The Sun is our source of energy, and for the next month the Sun will be as far away from your sign (astrologically speaking) as it gets all year, which means you are going to need more rest. Many of you will have already noticed that you are sleeping more. (Your sign is funny when it comes to sleep. Your sleep patterns are all over the map.) Just remember to get more rest. You might feel easily confrontational with partners, and close friends as well. Instead of being annoyed with them, be the change that you want to see in them. If you want them to be loving and flirtatious, be loving and flirtatious! (Get it?) Got it. (Good.)

Scorpio:

Aren't we industrious? This Aries Sun makes you want to work! Well, you might as well make the most of this urge because it comes only once a year. Act on this by giving yourself the right tools to do a bang-up job. Buy cleaning equipment, paint, file folders, hangers, shelving, closet organizers or whatever you need to de-clutter where you live and work. Give yourself a feeling that you're more in control of your life and on top of your scene. (You'll love yourself for this later.) By the way, many of you want to maximize your health as well. Focus on a healthier diet and doing more exercise. (You'll love yourself later for this as well!)

Sagittarius:

"Come out and play!" The next six weeks are full of opportunities to flirt, party, play and travel for fun. You'll also enjoy arts and crafts, the theatre, movies, show business and exploring opportunities in the hospitality industry. Playful activities with children will also delight. That's because anything to do with fun and play (ironically, this includes financial speculation because technically, that's playing with money), is tops on your menu for the next month. Naturally, you will continue to work hard because Mars continues to rouse your ambition but do take time out to reward yourself with some sheer fun. Yay!

Capricorn:

Many of you are travelling for pleasure now. Enjoy yourself! Furthermore, enjoy flirtations, vacations, love affairs and romance. You're keen to expand your world and learn more about everything around you (preferably thousands of miles away). The irony is that coupled with this desire to travel and expand your world you're also focused on home and family in the next month. (Weird combo.) Some of you might travel with family or to see family. Others will do both: travel somewhere and then later enjoy "hiding" at home to do some serious thinking. Some will create a new home in another country or a different location. My, my.


Aquarius:

During the next six weeks, you're busy. You've got things to do, people to see, places to go. Interaction with siblings and relatives will increase. So will your involvement with reading and studying. "I'm late, I'm late, for a very important date." You'll be doing the White Rabbit thing. (You might want to get a digital pocket watch.) You're eager to inform others about something or enlighten people. That's why you'll find yourself talking and writing more than usual. Home decorating projects will also appeal. Nevertheless, disputes about shared property or inheritances lurk in the wings.

Pisces:

You're pretty revved up about money in the next six weeks. You're focused on your cash flow as well as ideas about how to boost your earnings. Some of you will explore new job possibilities or ways to make money on the side. At a deeper level, you might wonder what your true values in life are. In other words, what really matters? (We know your car matters and the shoes you wear but, aside from that, what are the top five things that matter the most to you?) The more you are aware of what you value, the more you will live your life in a way that makes you happier. (I just made that up but I think it's true.)